Pakistan’s Misleading Statements on Basmati GI Rights

India has rejected Pakistan’s claims that it has secured Geographical Indication (GI) status for Basmati rice in New Zealand and Australia. An Indian government official called these statements "false and misleading," accusing Pakistan of spreading misinformation due to internal political pressures.

An industry source emphasized that Pakistan cannot receive GI status in New Zealand or Australia. Earlier rulings by the Intellectual Property (IP) Offices in both countries had already gone against it. "Pakistan likely expects an adverse ruling and is making false claims to appease domestic audiences," the source added.

On February 12, Pakistani media outlets falsely reported that India’s Basmati GI applications had been dismissed by New Zealand and Australia. The reports also claimed Pakistan had won the ownership dispute. Indian officials have denied these claims, clarifying the actual legal status of the case.

India’s Basmati GI Applications: Current Status

An Indian government official confirmed that India’s Basmati GI case in Australia is set for trial before the Federal Court in April 2025. Meanwhile, a High Court hearing in New Zealand is scheduled for this month. India has appealed previous IP Office decisions, which had declined to grant GI status for Basmati rice.

Pakistan’s Case Weakens in the European Union

Experts argue that Pakistan’s Basmati rice lacks India’s historic reputation, weakening its case. S. Chandrasekaran, an expert on Basmati GI, noted that Pakistan has restricted EU authorities from disclosing its complete application, fearing a negative outcome.

In the European Union, Pakistan is facing opposition. The European Commission (EC) is unlikely to approve its GI application after Italy formally opposed it in early 2024. On September 23, 2024, during a Committee of Agriculture meeting, Italy, Bulgaria, Romania, Spain, and Greece backed India’s position against Pakistan’s claims.

India's Strong Legal Standing and APEDA’s Role

The Agricultural and Processed Food Export Development Authority (APEDA) is actively defending India's Basmati branding. It has already secured logo trademark registration in New Zealand—something Pakistan has not achieved. A government official confirmed, “Pakistan has not been granted GI registration in any of these countries.”

Trade experts believe Pakistan’s chances of securing a GI tag in the EU are weak due to strong opposition from European nations and India’s historical dominance in Basmati cultivation.

Conclusion: India Maintains Strong Position in Basmati GI Battle

India continues to protect its Basmati heritage against Pakistan’s false claims. Legal proceedings in New Zealand and Australia are ongoing. In the European Union, Pakistan’s case appears weak due to multiple objections. With global recognition and APEDA’s legal efforts, India is likely to retain its dominant standing in the Basmati GI dispute.

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